Squad Overhaul: Orlando Pirates set to release 10 players.

Orlando Pirates Set For A Squad Overhaul.

As Orlando Pirates set their sights on the upcoming 2024/25 DStv Premiership season, whispers of significant changes within the squad have begun to circulate.

Sources intimate with the club’s inner workings have hinted at a potential overhaul that could see the Buccaneers’ current 37-player roster undergo a substantial trim.

The rationale behind this bold strategy is clear: to enhance team dynamics and bolster on-field results.

The coaching staff has reportedly faced challenges in providing targeted training and maintaining effective management due to the unwieldy size of the squad.

In response, Pirates is contemplating a reduction in squad size for the next season.

The proposed plan involves a gradual streamlining process, taking into consideration the demands of all competitions.

Should the Buccaneers proceed with this initiative, the anticipated benefits are manifold:

. Tactical Flexibility: A smaller group with well-defined roles could afford the coaches increased tactical versatility, thereby improving the team’s adaptability against various opponents and in different match scenarios.

• Focused Development: With a more concentrated squad, coaches could offer more personalized attention to each player, fostering growth and ensuring steady progress.
• Team Unity: A leaner roster may cultivate a stronger sense of camaraderie, an essential ingredient for triumph on the pitch.

The spotlight falls on several players as the club contemplates these changes:

. Katlego Otladisa: Despite joining the Bucs from Marumo Gallants ahead of the current season, the 27-year-old attacker has not found the back of the net or provided an assist in his nine outings and has been absent from play since December 2023.

.  Lesedi Kapinga: The 28-year-old’s quest for game time has been arduous since his arrival in Soweto, clocking in only nine appearances with a solitary assist after his departure from Mamelodi Sundowns.

. Siphelo Baloni: The promising midfielder, who joined the Sea Robbers this season from All Stars FC, has not been seen on the field since February, with a total of 11 appearances this season.

. Karim Kimvuidi: The young 22-year-old, who started his Orlando Pirates journey at the onset of the campaign from Maritzburg United, has had a sporadic presence, making 19 appearances across all competitions and netting two goals.

. Melusi Buthelezi: The goalkeeper, who transitioned to Soweto from TS Galaxy, has featured in 14 games, conceded 10 goals, and secured nine clean sheets.

. Souaibou Marou: The Cameroonian striker’s time on the field has been on the decline. Following a three-goal tally in nine matches last season, he has been limited to just four appearances in the current campaign, with his last game in September.

. Azola Matrose: The 21-year-old has yet to make an appearance for the Orlando Pirates this season, following his loan stint with Chippa United.

. Thabiso Sesane: Post his loan period with All Stars FC, the centre-back has only donned the Pirates jersey twice this season, with recent games against Golden Arrows and AmaZulu FC.

. Kermit Erasmus: The 33-year-old’s season has been hampered by injuries and stiff competition, resulting in a mere 11 appearances and a single goal, with his last match in November 2023.

. Thabang Monare: Starting the season as a fixture in the lineup, Monare has witnessed a reduction in his role, making 19 appearances with only two coming as a substitute in 2024.